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My research indicates I can temporarily import my motorcycle to NSW Australia for up to 12 months, as long as I have first obtained a VIA (Vehicle Import Approval). I do not need a carnet. In this case I must keep the bike registered and warranted in NZ throughout my trip, and will be required to lodge the amount of duty payable for permanent import. This is refunded upon re-export of the vehicle.
Clearly this would be considerably less onerous than purchasing a carnet from the AA for $450, and also lodging funds up to the value of the motorcycle!
Can you advise from whom in Australia I can obtain comprehensive vehicle insurance (with or without a carnet). Thanks

You have been misinformed in a couple of areas.
Firstly, to obtain a Carnet you do not need to lodge funds to the value of the motorcycle. For Australia, you only have to put up a bond or guarantee of 15% of the value of the motorcycle. Many people opt for a bank guarantee, so you do not have to stump up with the cash. If you opt for the VIA option (which Australian authorites do not prefer) you will have to lodge the entire duty with the Australian authorities. Also, it is only available if your motorcycle meets Australian legislation as a permanent import (ie; meets ADR compliance), so not all vehicles will qualify.
Secondly, as Carnet is the preferred option for Australian authorities, it will be much easier to clear customs when you arrive in Australia, so it is less onerous to arrive with a Carnet.
In summary, Carnet is an FIA internationally recognised means of using a vehicle in a foreign country, so it is the best option.
See;
http://www.aaa.asn.au/touring/bringing.htm
Insurance is something you will need to arrange yourself, and not an area we are involved in. However, our counterparts in Australia have provided this link for insurance for tourists
http://www.carmarket.com.au